Happy Hamstery

[Hamster Haven]

Hi all. There is an ethical winter white breeder in the U.S. (apparently they originally flew to England to get 8 starter purebreds that they could trace the lineage of).

 

[Maz]

That's interesting. I had read about this hamstery obtaining pedigree winter white stock - it was mentioned on here a while back.

 

[Hamster Haven]

That's interesting. I had read about this hamstery obtaining pedigree winter white stock - it was mentioned on here a while back.

I only recently started looking at their website. I can't remember if she told that story on their site, but I think once they decided to become winter white breeders that was the only way they could do it, which I thought was interesting- that there are only hybrids in the U.S. (and I'm assuming Canada) otherwise.

 

[Maz]

Yes I think they are probably the only pedigree winter whites in the US. Hybrids have been interbred for so long.

 

[Member ID2]

Let's hope that this breeder operates in an ethical way and doesn't overbreed the hamsters, keeps them in appropriate housing, only rehomes the babies to suitable forever homes instead of to other breeders only and most importantly: respects the hamsters as little individuals with needs and feelings and not just pedigree colours.
I'm not trying to put a damper on anything but feel very strongly about a hamster's right to the life they deserve.

 

[Maz]

I think they are a very reputable breeder and in the California Hamster Association list of ethical breeders (ie with good care and breeding practice requirements).

 

[Hamster Haven]

Let's hope that this breeder operates in an ethical way and doesn't overbreed the hamsters, keeps them in appropriate housing, only rehomes the babies to suitable forever homes instead of to other breeders only and most importantly: respects the hamsters as little individuals with needs and feelings and not just pedigree colours.
I'm not trying to put a damper on anything but feel very strongly about a hamster's right to the life they deserve.

I agree. They claim to only breed based on a list of applicants (demand) and you also have to complete an online educational course about hamster care that they've designed before you can be placed on their waiting list, which is a cool idea. I share your concern with evaluating ethical breeders though- obviously they're preferable to chain pet stores, but it's difficult to assess the details or how well the standards are followed.